The Thrive Bright Podcast (Previously The Overwhelm Edit)

If you’re a capable, high-achieving woman whose life looks fine on paper — successful career, family, responsibilities managed — but inside it feels heavy… this conversation is for you.Perhaps you’ve noticed that what used to “work” for your body and energy doesn’t seem to land anymore. The early starts, the pushing through, the all-or-nothing health kicks. And now you’re left feeling frustrated, tired, and quietly wondering why you can’t just get a grip.Let me gently reassure you: you are not broken. You are likely overloaded — hormonally, mentally, emotionally. In this episode of The Thrive bright podcast with Dr SaraLou, I’m joined by women’s fitness coach Kat Williams to explore a more compassionate approach to movement, strength, and wellbeing in midlife. One that doesn’t rely on willpower, perfectionism, or punishing routines — but on rhythm, consistency, and self-trust.This is about working with your nervous system, not against it.Inside this episodeWhy chasing willpower keeps high-achieving women stuck in the start-again cycleWhat “consistency” really means when you’re time-poor and mentally loadedThe power of one small non-negotiable (and why messy action is enough)How perfectionism and comparison quietly sabotage your wellbeingWhy rest is not indulgent — it’s foundational for resilience, hormones, and strengthHow creating rhythm (not restriction) rebuilds confidence and self-trustIf you’ve been waiting for life to calm down before you start looking after yourself, I hope this episode feels like a gentle hand on your back.Press play. Take a breath. Let yourself consider the possibility that you don’t need a dramatic overhaul — just one small, supportive step in the direction of the woman you’re becoming.If you’d like a gentle starting point, I’ve created a free guide to help you untangle overwhelm without adding more pressure:5 Ways to Beat Overwhelm👉 https://drsaralouwylie.com/5-ways-to-beat-overwhelmIt’s not a fix. It’s a first step. A way to begin creating steadiness in a full life.Stay in touchEmail: info@drsaralouwylie.comInstagram: @drsaralouwylie @coachkathrynwilliamsDisclaimerThis podcast episode is shared for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or therapeutic advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or care. If you are concerned about your mental or physical health, please seek support from a qualified healthcare professional.

Life can look full, successful, even enviable on the outside — yet feel heavy, exhausting, and quietly unsustainable on the inside. You may be holding everything together, leading, deciding, caring, achieving… and still feel like something is missing, or costing you more than it should.If that resonates, I want you to hear this first: you are not broken. You are responding to years of pressure, expectation, and self-sacrifice — and that matters.Inside This EpisodeIn this episode, I’m introducing you to the next chapter of this podcast and the deeper work it represents. The Thrive Bright Podcast is an invitation to explore how we live life differently — moving away from survival and burnout, and towards a life that feels aligned, resourced, and genuinely good.In this episode, we gently explore:Why so many high-achieving women feel exhausted and depleted despite “doing everything right”The hidden costs of success that’s built on self-sacrifice and constant pushingWhat it means to move from surviving to thriving — on your termsThe quiet crossroads moment where awareness begins to change everythingWhy burnout isn’t a personal failing, but a sign something deeper needs attentionA Gentle Invitation to ListenThis episode isn’t about fixing yourself or doing more. It’s about understanding what’s been happening — and giving yourself permission to imagine a different way forward. Listen gently, in your own time, and notice what lands.Free Resource: A Gentle First StepIf this episode resonates and you’d like a calm place to begin, you’re warmly invited to download my free guide: 5 Ways to Beat Overwhelm https://drsaralouwylie.com/5-ways-to-beat-overwhelmThis isn’t a fix — it’s a supportive first step towards understanding your overwhelm and reconnecting with yourself.How to Stay in Touch Email: info@drsaralouwylie.com Instagram: @drsaralouwylieIf this episode stirred something for you, you’re very welcome to reach out and share what landed.DisclaimerThis podcast episode is shared for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or therapeutic advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or care. If you are concerned about your mental or physical health, please seek support from a qualified healthcare professional.

Have you ever wondered why — despite all your insight, awareness, and effort — you still feel stuck in overwhelm or burnout?In this episode of The Overwhelm Edit, we explore one of the most common (and misunderstood) experiences of high‑achieving women: doing everything right and still not feeling better.This is a deeply reassuring, explanatory episode — not about fixing yourself or trying harder, but about understanding what’s really happening beneath the surface.In this episode, we explore:Why insight and self-awareness alone don’t automatically create changeHow years of pushing through shape your nervous systemWhy rest, calm, and confidence can feel unsafe after long-term overwhelmThe hidden reason high-achieving women struggle to apply what they knowThe difference between having information and being able to live itWhat actually helps change begin — gently, safely, and sustainablyKey takeaway:If you feel stuck, it’s not because you’re failing or doing something wrong.It’s because your nervous system hasn’t yet learned that it’s safe to live differently.Real change doesn’t come from trying harder — it comes from supported integration, safety, and taking small steps forward with guidance.Resources mentioned: Free guide: 5 Ways to Beat OverwhelmA gentle, practical starting point for creating more calm, clarity, and capacity — without pressure or perfectionism.Connect with Dr SaraLouInstagram: @drsaralouwylieEmail: info@drsaralouwylie.comThis podcast episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. Listening to this episode does not establish a coaching, medical, or therapeutic relationship. If you are experiencing significant mental health difficulties or distress, please seek support from a qualified healthcare professional or your GP.

In this opening episode of 2026, we’re not here to fix, diagnose, or motivate.This episode is an invitation to pause, to soften, and to understand what’s been happening — without blame.If life looks good on paper but feels heavy…If you’re capable, responsible, high-achieving — and exhausted in a way rest doesn’t touch…If you’ve been quietly wondering “What’s wrong with me?”This episode is for you.Rather than offering another solution or strategy, we explore a gentler truth:you didn’t fail — you were inside a perfect storm.A collision of high responsibility, unmet needs, and internal pressure that would challenge anyone.Inside this episode, we explore:Why overwhelm and burnout aren’t personal failuresHow high-functioning burnout often hides in plain sightWhy “just resting” doesn’t bring relief when the nervous system is overloadedBurnout as communication, not collapseHow understanding creates space for healing — without urgency or pressureThis is a place to feel seen, to breathe, and to remember that you’re not broken — and you’re not alone.NEXT STEPSIf it feels supportive, you’re very welcome to explore this work further.You can download my free guide “5 Ways to Beat Overwhelm”, which shares simple, grounding practices to help you feel calmer and more resourced in daily life: Download the free guide: https://drsaralouwylie.com/5-ways-to-beat-overwhelmAnd if you’d like to continue listening, you can explore more episodes of The Overwhelm Edit podcast, where we talk honestly about burnout, overwhelm, and nervous-system-led healing — with science and soul.This podcast is shared for educational and supportive purposes only and does not replace medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. If you are experiencing significant distress or mental health concerns, please seek support from a qualified healthcare professional or your GP. Always consult an appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstances.

Your wellbeing has the power to create a beautiful ripple effect. It’s the foundation for your quality of life, your presence with loved ones, and your capability at work — and it’s the fuel for the ripple effect you create in the world.In this episode, I share why it matters so deeply for women in high-responsibility, heart-led roles — doctors, academics, leaders, community builders — to be well-resourced, and why it’s the opposite of selfishness to prioritise your needs.You’ll hear:Why self-care is not indulgence but essentialThe ripple effect of a well-resourced woman at home, at work, and in the worldHow your wellbeing impacts your leadership, creativity, and purposeA powerful reframing for the inner critic that tells you it’s selfish to restPractical ideas to calm your nervous system so you can show up at your best📌 Links mentioned in this episode:Download my free guide 5 Ways to Beat Overwhelm.Learn more about Thrive TogetherMedical Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your physical or mental health.

Episode 9: When Summer Doesn’t Feel Like a Break: Burnout, Invisible Labour & Why You’re Still So TiredIf summer was supposed to be the season you finally exhaled, but instead you're feeling more burnt out than ever, this episode is for you.We’re pulling back the curtain on what’s really going on during this season of supposed ease — from the invisible labour so many women carry, to why your nervous system still feels constantly "on." If you're feeling snappy, struggling to be present, or like you're missing the moments you longed for… you're not alone.In this episode, Dr. SaraLou dives into:Why summer burnout is a real phenomenon (and not your fault)The internal and external pressures high-achieving women face — even when out of officeThe nervous system lens: why you can’t just “switch off”Small but powerful ways to begin restoring calm and presence this weekA reminder that you don’t have to do this alone✨ Plus, she shares a practical, free resource: 5 Ways to Beat Overwhelm — a beautiful, science-backed guide to help you feel more grounded, today.📩 Dr. SaraLou always loves to hear from listeners — drop her a DM on Instagram @drsaralouwylie or an email to share your reflections.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not therapy or medical advice and should not be considered a substitute for working with a qualified professional.

In this final episode of The Overwhelm Edit Season 1, we’re diving into three simple yet powerful habits that my one-to-one clients have found life-changing in their journey to feeling less overwhelmed and more in control.These habits may seem small, but don’t underestimate their impact! In this episode, I share:✔️ The surprising trick to stop self-sabotaging your sleep and finally feel well-rested.✔️ A simple way to transition smoothly between work and home life (so you can be fully present in both).✔️ Why just 10 minutes of movement can act like a bubble bath for your brain—resetting stress and boosting clarity.If you’ve ever felt stretched too thin, constantly distracted, or stuck in a cycle of exhaustion, these practical shifts could be exactly what you need. Give them a try and see how they transform your daily life!Disclaimer:This podcast is for general information only and does not constitute medical or psychological advice. If you’re struggling with your mental health or wellbeing, please seek support from a qualified professional.

Hello my lovely, and welcome to this episode!Today, I’m sharing three simple yet powerful tips that my one-to-one clients are finding incredibly impactful—practical strategies that will help you move past procrastination, boost your productivity, and feel capable at work again.If you ever find yourself staring at a to-do list, feeling overwhelmed and stuck in a cycle of overthinking, then this episode is for you. We’ll break down:✔️ The Pomodoro Technique – How to use time-blocking to make overwhelming tasks feel manageable.✔️ The Brain Dump Method – A powerful way to clear your mental load and prioritise with confidence.✔️ Celebrating Your Wins – Why acknowledging progress (big or small) is the secret to lasting motivation.You don’t have to stay stuck in procrastination or let burnout steal your confidence. These tips are designed to help you take small, achievable steps forward—starting today!I’d love to hear how these work for you! Tag me on Instagram @drsaralouwylie or send me an email to share your wins. Let’s celebrate your progress together!🎧 Next Episode: Stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll share even more client-approved strategies for creating healthy habits, increasing resilience, and reducing overwhelm.Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, or other professional advice.

Episode SummaryIn this episode, we’re diving deep into the topic of boundaries—what they are, why they matter, and how they can be a transformative tool for growth and freedom. Boundaries often feel unfamiliar and uncomfortable, but they are essential for creating space to thrive and sustain personal growth. Dr. SaraLou guides you through understanding boundaries as a way to nurture your energy, manage your time, and communicate your needs effectively.This episode covers: What boundaries are and why they’re important. Practical steps to identify your needs and set clear boundaries. Managing the emotions that arise when asking for what you need. How to communicate boundaries without fear of inconvenience. Holding yourself accountable to maintain boundaries, even when life doesn’t go as planned. A compassionate approach to setting boundaries that foster growth while allowing for flexibility.Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or unsure how to advocate for yourself, this episode provides actionable tools and mindset shifts to help you set and maintain boundaries that work for you.DisclaimerThis podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice or therapy. If you are experiencing significant emotional distress or challenges that feel beyond your capacity to manage, please reach out to a qualified mental health professional for support.

Welcome to The Overwhelm Edit, where we dive deep into tools, strategies, and insights to help you rewrite your story of burnout and overwhelm. In this episode, we're tackling a key topic: self-compassion.Let’s be honest: self-compassion doesn’t always come naturally. Many of us feel undeserving of our own kindness. We think we should have done more, been better, achieved something else by now.But here’s the truth: self-compassion isn’t something you have to earn. It’s something you can practise—even if your inner voice is full of “shoulds.”And the benefits? They’re incredible. When you can meet yourself with compassion (especially in tough moments), it shifts everything—from the way you process stress to the way you speak to yourself when things go wrong.If you’re finding it hard to even begin creating space for self-compassion have a look at my burnout and overwhelm coaching.Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, mental health, or other professional advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or well-being.

In this episode of The Overwhelm Edit, we dive deep into perfectionism—the hidden trap that so many high-achieving, successful women fall into. While perfectionism might seem like a helpful motivator, it often drains us, keeps us stuck in cycles of self-doubt, and pushes us toward overwhelm and burnout. Together, we’ll explore where perfectionism comes from, how it impacts us, and, most importantly, what we can do to break free.If you’ve ever felt like you’re just “not good enough” no matter how hard you try or struggle to set boundaries, this episode is for you.This episode is an invitation:✅ To step off the treadmill of doing and achieving.✅ To challenge the inner critic that says you're not enough.✅ To turn down the pressure and reconnect with what actually matters to you.You’re not lazy. You’re not failing. You’re simply human—and you’re worthy of feeling calm, grounded, and free.Want to Go Deeper?If you want to break free from the grip of perfectionism and start living with more confidence, peace, and productivity have a look at my masterclass: Overcoming Perfectionism and OverwhelmInside, you’ll find powerful, practical ways to reclaim your energy —starting today.Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, mental health, or other professional advice. If you’re struggling with your mental health or suspect you may have a medical condition, please consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional.

In this episode, we dive into the art of creating pockets of joy and sustaining habits that support your well-being. Dr. SaraLou explores the concept of "drainers and sustainers" to help you identify what’s depleting your energy and what’s nurturing it. You’ll learn how to prioritise your needs, start small, and build lasting habits rooted in science and psychology. This practical and empowering guide is perfect for busy women who want to reclaim their energy and create a life that feels balanced, purposeful, and fulfilling.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why it’s important to create intentional moments of joy and well-being in your daily life.The concept of drainers (what takes away from your energy) and sustainers (what replenishes your energy).The five building blocks of a strong foundation: sleep, nutrition, movement, connection (including with yourself), and rest.How societal pressures can make it challenging for women to prioritize their needs—and how to overcome these barriers.A step-by-step guide to creating new habits that stick, including the essential roles of cues and rewards.Connect with Dr. SaraLou:Instagram: @drsaralouwylie tag me in your post on new habits so that I can cheer you on.Email: Reach out with your questions or share your new habit journey!Sign up for my Free guide: 5 Ways to Beat Overwhelmand check out my blog post on drainers and sustainers too. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual mental health support or medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

In this episode of The Overwhelm Edit, we dive into the topic of overwhelm:What it is, Why it happens, What you can do about it NOW!Whether overwhelm for you looks like snapping at small triggers or withdrawing completely, this episode will give you practical insights and tools to navigate those moments with more ease.Key TakeawaysOverwhelm is not your fault—it’s your body’s way of signaling that your needs are not being met.Stress itself isn’t the enemy, but staying stuck in an activated state is.The APEX Model offers a simple, effective method to interrupt the overwhelm spiral and bring calm back into your life.Try the "physiological breath" technique today and start shifting out of stress mode and don't forgot to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. Email me your thoughts or experiences—I’d love to hear how the APEX Model works for you or Tag me on Instagram —I’d love to connect and cheer you on.Sign up for my free guide, "5 Ways to Beat Overwhelm"The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for your individual needs.Join the ConversationLet me know how you’re using the APEX Model to tackle overwhelm! Tag me on Instagram or send me a message—I’d love to connect and cheer you on.

Welcome to the very first episode of The Overwhelm Edit! In this episode, we’re diving into an unspoken epidemic affecting so many women: burnout, overwhelm, and the mental load that keeps us stuck in survival mode. Drawing from my experiences as a GP and women's life coach, I unpack why so many of us are feeling stretched too thin, and how societal pressures, perfectionism, and a lack of support are impacting our well-being.You’ll learn why overwhelm isn’t just a fleeting feeling but a sign that something needs to change—and how you can start reclaiming control, building self-compassion, and crafting a life that feels truly good for you. Together, we’ll uncover how to move from surviving to thriving.Tune in, reflect, and join this movement toward living a more intentional, balanced life. Don’t forget to check the show notes for reflection questions to guide your journey. Let’s do this together!Questions to take a pause with:What would your life look like if you prioritised your well-being in 3 months, 6 months, or a year?What patterns (perfectionism, people-pleasing, etc.) are holding you back?How does overwhelm show up in your body, and what might it be trying to tell you?Subscribe & Never Miss an EpisodeDon’t let overwhelm hold you back—hit subscribe to The Overwhelm Edit and join me for tools, strategies, and inspiration to reclaim your well-being. 🎧Let’s Connect on Instagram!Follow me on Instagram @drsaralouwylie for daily tips, behind-the-scenes moments, and sneak peeks of upcoming episodes. I’d love to hear your reflections—tag me and share your thoughts! 💬✨Grab Your Free GuideFeeling stuck in survival mode? Download my free guide, 5 Ways to Beat Overwhelm, and discover simple, practical steps to create space for what really matters.The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.

Professional women everywhere are stuck in survival mode—overwhelmed, burnt out, and silently struggling. Sound familiar?In this trailer episode, Dr. SaraLou , GP and life coach specializing in women’s burnout and overwhelm, introduces The Overwhelm Edit. This podcast is your safe space to rewrite your story, reclaim your energy, and finally feel capable at work and present at home.Discover why well-being isn’t a luxury but the foundation of a thriving life. Through relatable insights, practical tools, and a mix of science and soul, SaraLou sets the stage for a transformative journey out of overwhelm and into balance, confidence, and fulfillment.Are you ready to edit overwhelm out of your life once and for all? Let’s do this.